Ex-Davenport aldermen claims self-defense in trial

Published On: Feb 21 2013 04:04:26 PM CST

DAVENPORT, Iowa (AP) -

A former Davenport city alderman accused of threatening his neighbor with a gun says it was in self-defense.

Keith Meyer gave an opening statement at his assault trial Thursday that began with a Bible verse and included details about his hearing disability. He says his neighbor has attacked him and his guests over the years and damaged his property.

The Quad-City Times reports prosecutors say the 71-year-old Meyer threatened his neighbor with a shot gun last year. He is charged with assault while displaying a dangerous weapon.

He faces two years in prison if found guilty of the aggravated misdemeanor.

Meyer served as Davenport's 3rd Ward alderman for several terms. He lost his re-election bid in 2007.

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